• Six jobs 'at risk' if planning bid is turned down
  • Protesters says site looks like 'mini docklands'
  • Removal company based in Clacton since 1892

A REMOVAL firm claims it could be forced to close if it fails to get the green light to store shipping containers at its base in Clacton.

Appleby’s wants the go-ahead to have the huge metal containers it its premises on Gorse Lane industrial estate.

The move has sparked anger with residents whose homes overlook the site.

They says it will look like a “mini docklands”.

But bosses at the company, which has been based in Clacton since 1892, say the storage containers will have little impact.

Spokesman Robert Open said: “We bought the site in good faith, having checked with the council that it was allocated for commercial uses within the Gorse Lane industrial estate.

“We were told that our proposed use would be OK but we’re very surprised when we were later told by the council that planning permission was needed our for operation.”

The original application was turned down by Tendring Council.

The firm has put in new plans which include screening designed to placate objectors.

Mr Open said: “We understand people may wish to object but the land is allocated for commercial uses and we do believe operations will have little real impact on the area or its residents.”

He added: “If this application is refused we will probably have to close, losing six jobs, as there are no other sites in the area suitable and available for our operations.”